Need to eradicate honor killing
Imad Yousafzai
When family members kill a relative, usually a woman, for dishonoring the family, this is called honor killing. Such killings are often motivated by the belief that the victim has brought shame or dishonor to the family, such as through actions like refusing an arranged marriage or chosing to live a life that is deviant to the social norms. These killings are often carried out by family members and are a form of violence against women.
In Pakistan, most of the people give it the name of Islam, saying that the victim has committed a sin going against the elders of the family but actually Islam strongly condemns honor killing as it is a form of murder and is not condoned by Islamic law. Many Pakistanis are against honor killings and believe that these are a form of violence that has no place in the modern society. However, still there are some people who support it due to cultural and traditional beliefs.
Pakistan’s collectivist culture greatly emphasizes on maintaining the reputation and social standing of the family unit. The fear of social ostracization and the pressure to conform to societal expectations can drive individuals to commit or condone honor killings as they perceive it as a means of preserving the family’s honor.
A report by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan highlights that 470 cases of honor killing were reported in 2021, whereas according to Sindh Suhai Organization (SSO), 217 people, including 152 women have been killed in the so-called honor-related crimes only across Sindh, last year. Human rights defenders estimate that around 1,000 women are being killed in the name of honor every year.
No human is born criminal but there are many reasons that lead a person to commit a crime. Psychological processes such as cognitive distortions (negative thinking patterns that are not based on fact or reality) play a remarkable role in continuance of honor killings. Individuals who commit such acts often employ distorted thinking patterns, justifying their actions by convincing themselves that they are upholding societal norms and preserving the family’s reputation, and by this it can be estimated that society is involved in that specific murder. This process not only allows them to absolve themselves of any guilt or moral responsibility but even the society appreciates their act and see them as more honorable persons.
Fear acts as a powerful motivator for perpetuating honor killings. The threat of dishonor and the fear of losing social status can exert immense psychological pressure on individuals, making them feel compelled to commit or support such acts. Moreover, honor killings are often intergenerationally transmitted, with parents passing down these beliefs and justifications to their children, continuing a cycle of violence.
There is a great psychological impact of honor killings on both the victims and the communities involved. It creates an atmosphere of fear and terror in the whole area as individuals live under constant threat of violence. This fear can have long-lasting psychological consequences which will eventually lead to anxiety (feeling nervous, restless or tense), having a sense of impending danger, panic or doom), post-traumatic stress disorder (re-living the traumatic event through unwanted and recurring memories, flashbacks or vivid nightmares), depression (constant feeling of sadness and loss of interest which stop from doing normal activities), and other several serious psychological disorders.
Even if the victims are not actually responsible for bringing dishonor to the family still they will be constantly under the feeling of guilt and shame. They may internalize the belief that they have brought disgrace to their families and communities, causing low self-esteem, self-blame, and self-destructive thoughts. Survivors of honor killings may face isolation from their families and communities. They may be disowned by their relatives, leading to a profound sense of loneliness and abandonment. According to a report, extreme loneliness can lead to death even. This social exclusion can lead to the intense feelings of depression, anxiety, and a loss of identity.
The loss of a loved one through an honor killing can trigger profound grief and bereavement. Survivors may experience a range of emotions, including shock, disbelief, anger, guilt and sadness. The sudden and violent nature of the act can complicate the grieving process, making it difficult for survivors to find closure and heal. Honor killings can severely impact trust and relationships within families and communities. Family members may become suspicious of one another, leading to strained relationships and a breakdown of trust.
Survivors may struggle to form new relationships or maintain existing ones due to the fear of judgment, rejection, or further violence. Individuals who grow up in communities that practice honor killings may experience internal conflicts between their personal values and the cultural or religious norms they are expected to uphold. These conflicts can cause considerable distress, as individuals grapple with feelings of loyalty, guilt, and the desire for independence.
Addressing the psychological effects of honor killings requires a comprehensive approach that combines legal protection, social support and mental health interventions. Providing survivors with safe spaces, counseling services and community awareness programs can be vital in helping them heal, rebuild their lives, and challenge the harmful norms that perpetuate honor killings.
Reducing the rate of honor killings requires concerted efforts at multiple levels, including legal, social, and cultural changes. Here are some strategies that can contribute to decreasing the prevalence of honor killings:
Although on December 8, 2004, under international and domestic pressure, Pakistan enacted a law that increased punishment for honour killings to prison term of 7 years, or by the death penalty in the most extreme cases, but still the government should enact and enforce laws that explicitly criminalize honor killings and provide appropriate penalties for the perpetrators.
Legal frameworks should prioritize the protection of individuals at risk, ensuring their safety and offering them avenues for reporting and seeking justice. It is crucial to eliminate legal loopholes, such as reduced sentences for the so-called “family honor”. Promoting education and awareness is essential to challenge the cultural and social norms that perpetuate honor killings. This includes educating communities, schools and religious institutions about human rights, gender equality, and the importance of freedom of choice.
So as the more awareness is spread and educational rate is increased, the less will be the number of criminals in society. Empowering women and girls is crucial in combating honor killings. Providing access to education, vocational training and economic opportunities can enhance their independence. Empowering women to participate in decision-making processes within their families and communities can challenge patriarchal norms and promote gender equality.
Establishing support networks, helplines and shelters for individuals at the risk of honor killings is essential. These resources can provide a safe heaven, psychological support, legal aid, and practical assistance for survivors. Collaborating with local organizations, NGOs and community leaders is crucial to creating a network of support and protection. Engaging community and religious leaders is also vital to changing attitudes and behaviors. Encouraging these influential figures to speak out against honor killings, promote gender equality and emphasize the importance of human rights can have a significant impact.
Collaborative efforts with religious institutions can help reinterpret religious texts and traditions to promote non-violence and respect for individuals. Honor killings often cross borders, and international cooperation is crucial in addressing this issue. Governments, NGOs and international organizations should partner to share best practices, exchange information, and provide support to countries dealing with honor-based violence.
It is also highly important to recognize that eradicating honor killings requires a long-term commitment and a multi-faceted approach. By addressing the root causes, promoting gender equality and challenging harmful cultural norms, society can work towards preventing these acts of violence and creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all individuals.
The writer is an MPhil scholar at the Department of Political Science, University of Peshawar. He can be reached at: saabphir1@gmail.com.
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